skinsense

Minimizing Wrinkles
Around Your Eyes

Hate those crow’s feet, but want to avoid going under the knife? You can improve the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes without surgery. For starters, avoid squinting while outdoors, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and sunglasses that block ultraviolet light. Botox® is a great temporary fix (lasts about four months) for crow’s feet and under-eye crinkles. Topical retinoids can also boost collagen and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

A new laser treatment, the SmartXide DOT™ (affectionately known as the Smart Dot) produces excellent results as well. The Smart Dot delivers precise amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser energy in a unique way: unlike traditional laser resurfacing, where the entire canvas of the targeted area of skin is treated, the Smart Dot laser gently treats the skin in a “polka dot” pattern, sparing the bridges of normal skin that lie in between the areas that are treated with the laser. The islands of skin that remain untouched by the Smart Dot are the key to rapid healing, because the entire epidermis is not ablated by the laser. In many cases, instantaneous skin tightening is seen after a single session. The Smart Dot can also be used to enhance the appearance of the hands, neck, décolletage, forearms and legs. The procedures are quick, virtually painless, bloodless and well tolerated.

SKIN SERUM
TO THE RESCUE

Want help in preventing the appearance of premature aging? Cera-Sterol® is a moisture-retaining serum made with vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene. Used twice a day it can help improve the appearance of fine lines around your eyes and mouth. 0.5 fl. oz., $36. Available through Abbe Cosmetic Group, International—Farmingdale (abbelabs.com).

Q&A

I have psoriasis and recently I read that psoriasis patients may have an increased risk of heart attack. Should I be concerned?

Recent research has shown that inflammation plays a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and coronary artery calcification. This can precede a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Psoriasis, a common inflammatory skin disease affecting approximately 2.2 percent of the population can be viewed as a relative risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The inflammation associated with psoriasis is one likely trigger for coronary artery calcification and cardiovascular disease. A relative risk is just that—a risk—not a certainty. But often patients with severe psoriasis have other risk factors for heart disease, including obesity, tobacco use, or type 2 diabetes. Psoriasis patients should be screened for diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), hyperlipidemia (elevated triglycerides) and coronary disease. Certainly any cardiac symptoms should be taken seriously and evaluated appropriately. My advice to those with psoriasis is the same as my advice for al patients. Lead as healthy a lifestyle as possible; don’t smoke; maintain a normal weight; and exercise.

Deborah S. Sarnoff, M.D., specializes in cosmetic dermatology, laser surgery and Mohs surgery for the treatment of skin cancer. She is an Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at New York University Medical Center, President of the Long Island Dermatological Society and Vice President of the Skin Cancer Foundation. Send your questions for Dr. Sarnoff to Wellness Magazine, Island Publications, 235 Pinelawn Rd., Melville, NY 11747.

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